How to Draw Lips?

Lips look complicated, but they're built from a few simple shapes. The trick is starting with the center line (the line where the lips meet) — it's the most important line, since it defines the whole expression.

What you need: a pencil, an eraser (a kneaded eraser is great for highlights), and paper.

Step-by-step:

1. Draw the center line. Sketch a horizontal line with a gentle wave — it dips slightly in the middle and curves up at the corners. This is the line where the two lips meet, and it's usually the darkest line in the finished drawing.
2. Add the Cupid's bow. Above the center line, draw the "M" shape of the upper lip — two soft peaks in the middle with a small dip between them, tapering down to each corner.
3. Draw the lower lip. Below the center line, draw a single, fuller curve. The lower lip is usually thicker and rounder than the upper lip.
4. Check proportions. The lips are widest at the center and taper to the corners. Lightly mark the corners first so both sides stay even.
5. Add shading for volume. Lips are three-dimensional, so shade:
   • Darkest along the center line where the lips meet.
   • Darker at the corners and along the bottom edge of the lower lip.
   • Lighter on the fullest parts that catch light.
6. Add a highlight. Use an eraser to lift a soft highlight on the middle of the lower lip (and just above the Cupid's bow) — this makes them look full and glossy.
7. Add texture. Draw fine vertical lines following the curve of the lips for a natural texture, keeping them soft and light.

Tips: Keep the outer edges soft rather than a hard outline — real lips blend into the skin. And remember lips curve around the face, so they aren't flat.